Proving: 3A = (cos(2A)-cos(4A))/(sin(4A)-sin(2A))

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SUMMARY

The equation to prove is tan(3A) = (cos(2A) - cos(4A)) / (sin(4A) - sin(2A)). The initial approach involves expanding tan(3A) to sin(3A)/cos(3A). A critical insight is recognizing that 2A can be expressed as 3A - A and 4A as 3A + A, which simplifies the right side of the equation. This transformation is essential for proceeding with the proof using trigonometric identities.

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Homework Statement


I have to prove that 3A=(cos(2A)-cos(4A))/(sin(4A)-sin(2A))


Homework Equations


All of the trig identites.


The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I know I can expand tan(3A) to sin(3A)/cos(3A). After this, I have no idea what to do. I do not know any way to simplify or expand the right side of the equation. If someone can help me out by just showing the me the first step, if possible, then I can try to solve the rest of the identity by myself.
Thanks!
 
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LoveandHate said:

Homework Statement


I have to prove that 3A=(cos(2A)-cos(4A))/(sin(4A)-sin(2A))


Homework Equations


All of the trig identites.


The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I know I can expand tan(3A) to sin(3A)/cos(3A). After this, I have no idea what to do. I do not know any way to simplify or expand the right side of the equation. If someone can help me out by just showing the me the first step, if possible, then I can try to solve the rest of the identity by myself.
Thanks!
I don't think you have written the problem correctly. I believe you meant to write
tan(3A) = (cos(2A)-cos(4A))/(sin(4A)-sin(2A))

If so, start with the right side and notice that 2A = 3A - A, and 4A = 3A + A.
 

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